Jimmy Hart Explains What Vince McMahon Wants In A Top Star

Jimmy Hart is a legendary professional wrestling manager and musician that knows all of the intricacies of the pro wrestling business. Recently, Hart gave details of a conversation where Vince McMahon detailed the attributes he looks for in a top star.

The ‘Mouth of the South’ is known for managing many of the industry’s biggest stars, from Jerry’ The King’ Lawler, The Hart Foundation, and The Honky Tonk Man, to one of the greatest stars in wrestling history, Hulk Hogan.

In a recent interview with Wrestling Inc., Hart recalled a conversation he had with Vince McMahon where the WWE Chairman detailed exactly what he looks for in a big attraction.

“Vince McMahon years and years and years ago in Poughkeepsie, New York said to me, ‘Jimmy, I’m looking for my next big attraction. Someone that can walk through any airport in the world, and even a casual wrestling fan will recognize him.’ He specifically wanted a casual to recognize him, one that rarely watches TV. ‘Then, I can take him on the Today Show, the Tonight Show, and they can hold their own with a host about anything the host wants to talk about and not embarrass the company. Then, I can take him and give him about a three or four months’ push on TV and they can make me a million dollars worth of merchandise.’”

He went on to list Hulk Hogan, The Rock, ‘Stone Cold’ Steve Austin, and John Cena as previous stars who fit that bill. When it was put to him that Roman Reigns is the WWE Superstar who has what it takes by the top star now, he immediately agreed.

“I think you got a home run right there.”

Roman Reigns lived up to the idea that he is currently WWE’s biggest star when he defeated John Cena at SummerSlam on August 21st to retain his WWE Universal Championship.

Source and transcription: Wrestling Inc.